Rohan Umak
Badshah song controversy: Popular Indian singer and rapper Badshah issued a public apology on Saturday, days after his newly-released Haryanvi track Tateeree drew flak and invited legal action. The singer informed that the song has been removed from all digital platforms after stirring controversy.
Notably, the controversy picked pace after the Haryana Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the artist, over allegations that the music video showed girls dressed in school uniforms, dancing inside a Haryana roadways bus and making lewd gestures.
Badshah addresses backlash on Instagram
Badshah,
on Saturday, took to his official Instagram handle and shared a video message, in which he said that certain lyrics and their visual depiction may have unintentionally hurt the sentiments of many people, particularly those from Haryana. Emphasising his roots, the rapper said he is proud of his Haryanvi identity and would never intentionally disrespect women or children from the state.
He underlined that hip-hop lyrics often involve competitive expressions aimed at rivals within the genre, and reiterated that the lines in question were not intended to target minor girls or women.
His further said that
“he has always tried to promote Haryanvi culture and language through his music. Towards the end of the video, he confirmed that the track was being taken down from all digital platforms.”
FIR registered, Haryana SCW takes cognisance
Days after the release of the song, several complainants had approached the Haryana State Commission for Women (SCW), alleging that the song was laced with sexualised references and language that pointed towards the objectification of minor girls and women. Following the complaints, Haryana SCW’s chairperson, Renu Bhatia had taken cognisance on Friday, and had issued summons to Badshah. Soon after this, the Haryana Police had also registered an FIR against the artist.
The track was released on March 1, 2026, and has been performed by Badshah. It also features vocalist Simran Jaglan. Notably, Badshah had penned the song’s lyrics.
